Flights to St. Johns, Arizona from

Wherever you're jetting in from, flying can be a pleasant experience if you prepare well enough. Follow these handy tips and tricks that will help get your St. Johns escape started on the right foot. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The secret to having a great flight experience is to pack ahead. Start with the essentials: passport, travel documents, credit cards and any vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you entertained, like some electronic gadgets or a few magazines. It's also smart to pack your chargers, a quality neck pillow and a pair of earplugs. Last but not least, don't forget to chuck in toiletries like a toothbrush, lip balm and a spare set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of banned items can differ between air carriers, the general rule of thumb is nothing flammable, sharp or explosive. This includes screwdrivers, pocket knives, spray paint and fireworks. Sports equipment like hockey sticks, and items that could harm passengers, such as firearms and ammunition, won't be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• You'll want to choose comfort over style. Prepare for changes in cabin temperature by layering up, and opt for flat, slightly roomy shoes like sneakers.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It's the result of blood clots forming due to poor circulation and inactivity, so do some gentle leg and foot exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression socks.

Being prepared before your flight will make your getaway to St. Johns a piece of cake. Check out our top tips for a speedy journey through security:

• Be sure to have your passport and travel documents easily accessible. They're the first items you'll be asked for by security.
• Next up, both you and your carry-on bag must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that is likely to trigger the alarm. Personal belongings such as your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, tablet and any other electronic gadgets will need to be sent through the scanner.
• Traveling with a new hand and nail cream? No problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's OK to bring with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Slip-on shoes are a good footwear choice as you're less likely to have to remove them when passing through security. Boots and other heavy shoes are often subjected to additional screening.
• Sharp items like knives can't be taken on board. They'll be confiscated at security, so pack them safely away in your checked suitcase.